May 2007

Michael McLean's Elements

May 8, 2007 20:48

As the end of the year nears, time seems to go by at an exponential rate. With finals approaching, stress rises to a fiery inferno! Well, it isn't that bad, but I am a born procrastinator and that really doesn't help when end of the year deadlines come around. With the end of the year comes club/society inductions. I am happy to report I was inducted into National Honor Society, Modern Music Masters (music honor society for orchestra, band, and choir), and German Honor Society. On top of that, I was elected president of the Modern Music Masters and German Honor Society!

Brian Lewis, one of my most favorite violinists and teachers ever, recently released a CD with the London Symphony Orchestra that can be purchased at Barnes and Noble! On the CD is Bernstein's Serenade and the debut recording of Michael McLean's The Elements. Elements was an instant favorite of mine, especially Fire and Water. Listen to the soundclips and you'll see what I'm talking about! I think Michael McLean is one of the most gifted composers of our time. It's amazing how well he was able to make music sound just like water - from a gurgling brook to a 50 foot waterfall. This summer at camp, I'll be taking a composing class with him and I'm very excited about that. I also auditioned for a classes with Brian and I really hope I get in. That would be awesome... Anyway, I would highly recommend the CD.